Dubuque Cosmetic Dentistry Blog - Exceptional Dentistry

Invisalign: the way to a wonderful smile

2011-07-12T09:28:00.002-05:00

A wonderful smile makes you confident. A fabulous smile gets you noticed.

BEFORE ___________________________________AFTER

Redesigning the smile you were born with to better reflect who you are today is an exciting and easy process with the Invisalign system. Invisalign is a series of clear, thin, virtually invisible custom molded aligners that fit over the teeth to progressively straighten them. You wear each set of aligners for about 2 weeks, moving your teeth into straighter position step by step, until you have a more beautiful smile. These clear aligners are comfortable to wear. You can take them out for eating, brushing and flossing. Since Invisalign is practically invisible, there’s no unwarranted attention to your mouth. Few people will notice at all – unless you tell them.

Here is an actual case treated by Dr. Kristen Berning:

BEFORE: top teeth ____________________AFTER: top teeth

BEFORE: bottom teeth_______________AFTER: bottom teeth

Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to design the complete treatment plan. You can view your virtual results before you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete. The average case takes about 12-18 months. Almost anyone who is determined to be a good candidate by Dr. Ted Murray or Dr. Kristen Berning can benefit from Invisalign. Dentistry is about more than just your teeth: better overall health, improved self-confidence, looking and feeling younger.

Dr. Kristen Berning and Dr. Ted Murray love providing Invisalign treatment and the Team at Exceptional Dentistry love to witness in the transformation! Answers to frequently asked questions about Invisalign can be found here.

Exceptional Dentistry serves the Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Dubuque, IA and Galena, IL areas. To schedule a complimentary Invisalign consult, call us today at 563-556-2711 or contact us using this form.

For Healthy Teeth, here are 15 Habits to Avoid

2011-06-15T19:55:00.005-05:00

Patients are often asking us about how they can keep their teeth strong.

An article on WebMD, explains 15 Ways to Wreck Your Teeth:

1. Don't brush after every meal

(You have to read this one completely because the BEST practice is to brush after breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but not immediately after you have eaten since the acid level in your mouth is high. Instead of waiting up to 60 minutes as the article mentions, we recommend swishing with water, mouthwash or chewing sugar-free gum. This will speed up the saliva neutralization time before you brush. Do not let food particles sit between the teeth while you wait! That makes the situation even worse.)

2. Forget about flossing

3. Skip checkups

4. Use your teeth as tools

5. Ditch the mouthguard

6. Grind away

7. Guzzle soda, sports drinks, and fruit juices

8. Drink lots of red wine, coffee, or tea

9. Whiten too often

10. Drink bottled water

11. Get your tongue pierced

12. Be bulimic

13. Abuse drugs

14. Chronically use some legal medications

15. Continue lighting up

If you have questions about any of these, ask us during your next visit!

Exceptional Dentistry serves the Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Dubuque, IA and Galena, IL areas. To schedule a consultation about your smile, call us today at 563-556-2711 or contact us using this form.

Smile Makeovers

2011-06-13T13:26:00.004-05:00

Did you know that June is National Smile Month? :)

To celebrate, we will be posting some of our favorite smile makeovers done by Dr. Ted Murray and Dr. Kristen Berning at Exceptional Dentistry in Dubuque, Iowa.

~~~~ What is a smile makeover? A smile makeover can be many things...

Sometimes a smile makeover is as simple as whitening.
Sometimes a smile makeover means straightening teeth with Invisalign.
Sometimes just one tooth in the smile needs a makeover.
Sometimes a smile makeover is done with porcelain veneers.
Sometimes cosmetic bonding or direct resin veneers are the best option for a smile makeover.

Follow us on our facebook page to see many of these techniques and how they can improve the looks of a smile :)

Exceptional Dentistry serves the Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Dubuque, IA and Galena, IL areas. To schedule a consultation about your smile, call us today at 563-556-2711 or contact us using this form.

Hit in the Mouth with a BB

2011-06-08T08:48:00.006-05:00

What is an AirSoft gun?

Well, Dr. Kristen Berning learned yesterday when a 14 year-old boy came in with a broken tooth. Airsoft guns are used to play a game similar to paintball, but instead of shooting paintballs, small plastic BBs are used. The name "airsoft" is very misleading... the plastic BBs can be very dangerous and damaging! They are solid plastic and can be shot at speeds of over 400 feet-per-second... causing serious damage to the eyes or teeth if hit. Safety gear should absolutely include protective eyewear, but also sturdy clothing to protect the skin, and protective gear that covers the face and ears.

And here's how he looked when he left!

Do you want to know how it was done????

This boy actually found the piece of tooth after the BB hit him, and we were able to bond it in place, similar to how we bond porcelain veneers to teeth. The result: a quicker appointment for the patient, no local anesthetic needed, and the best possible looking restoration! :)

Exceptional Dentistry serves the Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Dubuque, IA and Galena, IL areas. To schedule a consultation call us today at 563-556-2711 or contact us using this form.

Elite Athletes Have a Higher Risk for Tooth Decay

2011-05-23T13:04:00.007-05:00

Recent research suggests that elite athletes have a higher risk for tooth decay and tooth erosion, according to a study of triathletes in New Zealand, published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine.

The following reasons explain why athlete's teeth are at higher risk:

1. Intense physical training can cause a decrease in the amount of saliva due to dehydration and mouth breathing. Since saliva helps to protect teeth, decreased saliva can result in tooth decay.

2. The intense training also causes an athlete the need to "refuel" frequently with calories. Athletes often choose acidic sports drinks and fermentable carbohydrates (which quickly break down into sugar). Acid wears away at the enamel and sugar contributes to tooth decay.

The following photo shows a typical decay pattern seen in a person who consumes a significant amount of beverages containing sugar and acid.

Even though athletes may be categorized as HIGH RISK for dental decay and erosion, doesn't mean that they always get more cavities. There are important oral hygiene routines and nutritional decisions that can help prevent cavities in a high risk individual. Dr. Ted Murray and Dr. Kristen Berning and our 3 hygienists can help identify these risk factors and make recommendations so that the teeth are protected as best as possible.

Exceptional Dentistry serves the Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Dubuque, IA and Galena, IL areas. To schedule a consultation call us today at 563-556-2711 or contact us using this form.

Can your dentist save your life?

2011-05-16T15:17:00.005-05:00

Cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in many parts of the world. The use of high-quality CPR can improve a victim's chance for survival.

Health practitioners such as dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants are required to be certified in CPR. Dr. Ted Murray & Dr. Kristen Berning and the team at Exceptional Dentistry recently completed their CPR certification, which included some very important changes.

The 2010 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care includes the following changes:
1) changes in the basic life support sequence
2) continued emphasis on high-quality CPR, with minor changes in compression rate and depth
3) additional changes regarding cricoid pressure, pulse check, and automated external defibrillator (AED) use in infants.

The change in the basic life support sequence is: instead of the steps A-B-C for "airway-breathing-chest compressions", now the recommended sequence is C-A-B for "chest-compressions-airway-breathing." This was changed to improve the victim's chance for survival by beginning the important chest compressions sooner.

The team members at Exceptional Dentistry are now up-to-date on the most recent CPR guidelines, in order to be best prepared for an emergency.

We love positive reviews!

2011-05-10T13:44:00.002-05:00

We have made the commitment to our patients to provide technically advanced dentistry with personal attention and genuine compassion. We recommend types of treatment options that we would want for our families, friends, and ourselves.

Our love and excitement of what we give to our patients is obvious to everyone we meet, through our smiles and enthusiasm.

We are proud to be on the cutting edge of dental technology and are commited to participating in the education that keeps us there! We travel to some of the best training institutes in the country in order to stay up to date.

In return, we love to hear what our patients have to say about us! :)

FDA Releases Warning About Teething Medication

2011-05-04T21:26:00.004-05:00

What to do about teething pain? Some kids don't even notice the arrival of the new pearly whites pushing through their gums. However, for other children the eruption of new teeth causes a lot of pain, and parents want to know the best way to comfort their children. It seems we all hear about different remedies to relieve teething pain.

Parents often ask us if it is okay to give their young children Anbesol or Baby Orajel for teething pain. Well, the FDA recently issued a warning about caution using benzocaine-containing products on children under age 2. There have been cases where benzocaine has resulted in a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia. This is a condition that limits the blood's ability to carry important oxygen throughout the body, and it can result in death in the most severe cases.

For teething pain, we recommend using a chilled (not frozen) teething ring or gently rubbing the child's gums to relieve discomfort. There are some benzocaine-free products on the market as well.

The article from parenting.com can be found here.

Dr. Berning completes prestigious cosmetic program at University of Minnesota

2011-04-20T11:00:00.009-05:00

Dr. Kristen Berning has recently completed a nationally recognized Post-Graduate Continuing Education Program in Contemporary Esthetic Dentistry, it was announced today at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.

Dr. Berning completed a 100-question exam as part of the program, and she was named valedictorian for having the highest score in the class. She also tied the highest score in the program's 15 year history, and was recognized at the dinner reception for her achievement.

"We had some of the best minds in the country teaching this cutting edge course", said Paul Belvedere, D.D.S., Adjunct Professor, School of Dentistry. As a result, the University of Minnesota has become one of the premier sites for instruction in new technology and techniques in contemporary esthetic dentistry.

According to Paul Olin, D.D.S., M.S., Director of the Postgraduate Programs in Contemporary Esthetic Dentistry, there are many recently developed materials and procedures in restorative dentistry. This program enables practitioners to incorporate the new technology into their practice. The Post-Graduate Program in Contemporary Esthetic Dentistry at the University of Minnesota was designed specifically to fill the gap between clinical research and dental practice. Because it took place one weekend per month over 4 months, the program never interfered with Dr. Berning’s ongoing practice.

"It is no exaggeration to say that Dr. Berning is now among the best informed esthetic dentists in the world,” Dr. Belvedere noted. "The benefits to her patients should be obvious."

Exceptional Dentistry articles in TH newspaper

2011-04-04T21:53:00.008-05:00

In March 2011, The Telegraph Herald published 2 articles by Exceptional Dentistry in their annual Health Section supplement.

Dr. Kristen Berning describes the services that make up a superior check-up and cleaning in her article, "Does Your Dental Check-Up Measure Up?". Many people do not realize how many procedures are covered in this valuable one-hour appointment with a dental hygienist.

Dr. Ted Murray writes about the benefits of Invisalign treatment in his article "Look Younger...Feel Better". Many people want straight teeth, and the benefits go beyond just a pretty smile. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and healthy for life. Here are before and after photos of one of his Invisalign cases:

BEFORE:

AFTER:

The patient in the above photos also decided to whiten his teeth. He was very happy with his new smile!

The complete articles can be seen here.

Bad Breath- what you need to know

2011-03-24T07:45:00.004-05:00

The YOU Docs, Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen, talk about bad breath in their most recent column:

http://www.realage.com/blogs/doctor-oz-roizen/bad-breath-test-true-or-false

Here at Exceptional Dentistry, we agree when they say that most of the "bad breath" comes from bacteria in your mouth, especially the back of your tongue. Improved oral hygiene: brushing at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and cleaning off your tongue, is the first step to improving mouth odor. Certain mouth rinses can help, but read labels because mouth rinses with high alcohol content can dry the mouth too much and make things worse. Bad breath can also be the result of gum disease, gingivitis. As gum disease worsens, it spreads to the bone around the teeth and results in periodontal disease. Our hygienists are experts in treating gingivitis and periodontal disease. The bacteria of gum disease burrow under the gums and a professional cleaning is oftentimes only way to get them out.

Dr. Ted Murray on Nominating & Leadership Committee

2011-02-28T19:23:00.004-06:00

Last week, Dr. Ted Murray was at the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) meeting during the 145th Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting. As an elected member of the AACD Nominating and Leadership Development Committee, Dr. Murray and the other committee members interviewed member candidates for the positions of vice president and 4 positions for the Board of Directors. They interviewed and selected 3 AACD accredited members to serve on the American Board of Cosmetic Dentistry, who will be responsible for setting the guidelines and running the accreditation process.

Do your dental sealants contain BPA?

2011-02-21T08:49:00.004-06:00

The media has made us aware of health concerns with products containing Bisphenol-A, or BPA. Products such as plastic water bottles, baby bottles, liners in canned food, and plastic toys may contain BPA. Many baby bottles and other items were pulled off the market and redesigned to now contain NO BPA.

The media also has concerned many people when it mentioned dental sealants containing BPA.

The dental sealant materials we use in our office do NOT contain BPA.

For those who want to know more, here's another good resource "What is BPA?"

Iowa kids receive better dental care

2011-02-16T13:59:00.013-06:00

An article from drbicuspid.com said the following...

"The new report found that children living in the 5 top-ranked states -- Iowa, Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire -- are more likely to be insured and receive recommended medical and dental checkups than children living in poorer performing states such as Florida, Texas, Arizona, Mississippi, and Nevada."

Exceptional Dentistry enjoys providing dental care to kids. We do everything we can to make the visits fun and enjoyable for them.

During February, National Children's Dental Health Month, Dr. Kristen Berning and Exceptional Dentistry participated in the ADA's Give Kids a Smile Program, which provides free oral health care services to children from low-income families.

Voted "Best Dentists"

2011-02-07T09:03:00.004-06:00

Yesterday's edition of the Telegraph Herald's Her Magazine presented the winners of the 1st annual Her Choice awards. Dr. Ted Murray & Dr. Kristen Berning were voted Best Dentists of the Dubuque area! The entire office is excited about this award because it is truly a reflection of the high quality of all of the team members. Each team member working at Exceptional Dentistry strives to provide the best dental care available to our patients.

Here is an excerpt from the article:

"Berning and Murray believe the healthiest, most beautiful smiles begin with excellent oral care. Berning enjoys helping clients develop a lifelong habit of caring properly for their teeth and gums. And, Murray is one of 226 dentists accredited by the prestigious American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, as well as one of only two Iowa dentists and the only Dubuque dentist with this elite designation. "My dad has been in this practice for more than 30 years, and he put his heart and soul into designing a state-of-the-art office for patients to be treated in," Berning said. "I joined about four years ago. It's a family business. It's fun to work together as a family, and we love to treat Dubuque families. It's a fun place to work, and it's a great group of people. Every one who comes in always wonders why we're all smiling so much." "

Nighttime Mouth Breathing Poses Risks for Children

2011-01-31T19:16:00.007-06:00

Our Exceptional Dentistry team understands that nighttime mouth breathing can be harmful to a child's growth & development. Children are supposed to be able to breath through their noses at night, in order to have proper oxygen supply to their active brains. In addition, breathing through the nose allows for proper tongue & muscle balance which is necessary for the face to develop correctly.

As a family dental office, we care about our patients like they are our "family" too! We screen for mouth breathing in children by looking for narrow arches, crowded teeth, & enlarged tonsils, and looking for signs of sleep deprivation. Children who are sleep deprived may have poor school performance and reduced attention spans. They may snore at night or be restless sleepers. So, why do some kids breathe through their mouths instead of their noses? It can be a result of nasal obstructions, allergies or enlarged tonsils and adenoids. If this is suspected, we will refer our patients to the appropriate specialists.

A recent article about the role that dentists play in looking for children who are mouth breathers is here.

As dentists, we know the "MOUTH" very well and look at dozens each day... and it is here where the first signs of breathing disorders can be recognized. Dr. Ted Murray & Dr. Kristen Berning have advanced training to look for these conditions in children. We not only care about teeth, but we have helped many kids find a better night's sleep!

USA Weekend's "Beyond Brushing"

2011-01-28T08:48:00.002-06:00

"You know the drill: Brush at least twice a day with soft bristles, don't forget to floss, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams. Good oral hygiene not only keeps your smile pearly-white and gums in good shape, but it could help the rest of you stay healthy, too: Research shows cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis, among other conditions, may be linked to oral health. More tips to protect your teeth, based on the latest research.

Eat salmon. Or peanut butter. Or any other food rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). New research shows people whose diets were rich in PUFAs, specifically DHA and EPA fatty acids, were up to 20% less likely to have periodontitis. Periodontitis is a common inflammatory condition in which the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, allowing bacteria to build up and potentially lead to bone and tooth loss. Polyunsaturated fats have been shown to reduce inflammation.

Drink green tea. It helps protect against heart disease and cancer. It boosts weight loss and lowers cholesterol. And according to research published in the Journal of Periodontology, it helps keep your mouth healthy. The study showed that for every cup of green tea participants drank, there was a decrease in indicators for gum disease.

Chew sugarless gum. Doing so for about 20 minutes after a meal can help prevent tooth decay, the American Dental Association says. That's because the physical act of chewing gum increases the flow of saliva, which can help neutralize and wash away acids that are produced when food is broken down by bacteria in your mouth. Otherwise, the acids eat away at tooth enamel, resulting in decay.

Skip midnight munching. Late-night eating does more than add inches to your waistline. It also can increase your chances of gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss, according to two recent studies. Saliva flow dries up at night, which may be a reason. Saliva is important for removing food debris from your mouth."

This article came from USA WEEKEND.

A smile for your day :)

2011-01-17T13:59:00.004-06:00

Look here to see what happens "When good habits wander into the bad part of town".

We just wanted to put a smile on your face today! :)

Visit us on facebook

2011-01-10T10:47:00.000-06:00

Exceptional Dentistry of the Tri-State Region now has a facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/ExceptionalDentistry

Dr. Ted Murray's Certificate in Esthetic Dentistry

2011-01-07T09:10:00.002-06:00

Dr. Ted Murray is one of just 7 dentists (over the last 12 years) to receive a Certificate in Esthetic Dentistry from the University of Minnesota. He participated in this 500-hour program which included: lectures from some of the most renowned dentists in the country, extensive hands-on training, completing direct resin veneers on a patient at the University, presenting several of his own clinical cases to the class, and publishing an article in the Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry.

There is a profile on his accomplishments here.

Dr. Kristen Berning, has followed in his footsteps, as she is currently attending Level One of this Esthetic Program at the University of Minnesota. It takes most dentists at least a few years to complete the 500 hours and additional requirements.

Both the dentists and the team at Exceptional Dentistry are proud to be able to offer their patients the latest options in cosmetic dentistry.

Exceptional Dentistry Voted "Favorite Dentist"!

2010-12-21T14:59:00.002-06:00

We are very proud and excited to announce we were voted "Favorite Dentist" by the HER magazine readers of the greater Dubuque, Iowa area. HER magazine is published by the Telegraph Herald, the local newspaper for the Tri-State Region.

Thanks to all of our wonderful friends and patients for your votes!

Panel urges FDA to take another look at mercury fillings

2010-12-15T19:59:00.005-06:00

CNN.com published an informative article today describing the FDA's concerns with the possible safety risks from mercury dental fillings.

Studies have concluded that young children and developing fetuses are most susceptible to the neurotoxic effects of mercury.

Starting in 1998, Dr. Ted Murray discontinued using mercury-containing dental fillings, due to these concerns.

What Dr. Oz has to say about brushing your teeth

2010-12-07T10:27:00.005-06:00

Lower your risk of heart disease: Brush your teeth

BY MICHAEL ROIZEN, M.D., AND MEHMET OZ, M.D.

The YOU Docs

"What’s better than walking out of the dentist’s office with a mega-watt smile, the slick feel of just-polished teeth, a free toothbrush and knowing that’s over? How about a 33 percent drop in your risk for a heart attack or stroke?

"You read that right. Dentists and cardiologists have long known that neglecting your pearly whites leads to more than a tight-lipped grin in your high-school reunion photo. It also kicks up trouble in your arteries. The same gunky dental plaque -- a gooey mix of bacteria, saliva and microscopic bits of yesterday’s tuna sandwich -- that sticks to your teeth, causing gum disease, also ratchets up body-wide inflammation. And that encourages a different kind of plaque, the artery-clogging kind that can hurl a blood clot at your heart or your brain.

"Now there’s finally pretty dramatic proof that battling dental plaque protects your ticker and little gray cells. In a new study, women who’d seen a dentist in the previous two years were at least one-third less likely to have a heart attack, stroke, chest pain or congestive heart failure. (Dental care didn’t seem to protect men’s hearts, which leads researchers to think that either gum disease is especially risky for women or that men were just too far gone.)

"The tooth plan that’s best for your arteries? Brush (two minutes) and floss daily to keep dental plaque from moving in. Be on the lookout for early signs of gum disease (gingivitis): puffy, red, tender gums. And date your dentist regularly, every six months or so."

The YOU Docs, Mehmet Oz and Mike Roizen, are authors of “YOU: On a Diet.” Want more? See “The Dr. Oz Show” on TV (check local listings). To submit questions, go to www.RealAge.com.

2 Sedation Dentists-Dr. Carl Howell & Dr. Ted Murray

2010-10-11T10:23:00.012-05:00

The popular Fox comedy show called Glee has a sedation dentist, "Dr. Carl," joining the cast. The Tuesday 7 PM central show tells the adventures of a high school glee club.

John Stamos, age 47, plays the dentist, who is dating one of the school's teachers. John Stamos is known for his roll in "Full House," has starred on Broadway 4 times, and has played drums for the Beach Boys on and off for the past 25 years.

Dr. Carl Howell visits the glee club, where he discovers that some of the students have terrible teeth. Cheerleader Brittany's are the worst of the singers.

Brittany: "I don't brush my teeth. I rinse my mouth out with soda after I eat. I was pretty sure Dr. Pepper was a dentist."

Brittany goes to visit Dr. Carl for treatment.

Dr. Carl: "So Brittany, you have cavities in every single tooth."

Brittany:"Please don't pull all my teeth. When I smile I'll look like an adult baby."

Dr. Carl: "All right, we'll put you under with sedation dentistry - you won't feel a thing."

-----------

Nearly 50% of the population feels nervous or uncomfortable about having dental procedures done. In our caring, comfortable office, patients are provided care, and not judged or looked down upon because of their anxiety over dentistry. Sometimes just getting through the door for a consultation is a small victory for some people. Sedation Dentistry has been a great help for our patients. Dr. Ted Murray has you take one pill before your appointment. You have little or no memory of the appointment. He can get all of your work done in one or two appointments. We take your fear seriously and are dedicated to providing a dental experience that will lessen your fears and give you a healthy smile. Call us at 563-556-2711 or send us a message to schedule an appointment or consultation.

Healthy Heart and Healthy Teeth

2010-09-22T14:51:00.004-05:00

Heart disease is the leading killer of men and women in the United States and in Europe. British researchers studied nearly 12,000 adults in Scotland and found that those who don't brush their teeth twice a day have a 70% increased risk of heart disease compared to those who brush twice a day.

Bleeding, red puffy gums are signs of periodontal disease. People with this disease are more likely to develop heart disease and diabetes because inflammation in the body plays a role in the build up of clogged arteries. See us at least twice a year, so we can help you get a clean healthy mouth.

One of 12 in the World

2010-09-20T14:47:00.006-05:00

Dr. Ted Murray is one of 12 dentists in the world that is both an Accredited dentist in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry. He has completed thousands of hours of continuing education and passed rigorous written, clinical, and oral examinations to achieve these high designations. He is committed to being on the leading edge so that he can truly provide exceptional dentistry.

My gums bleed when I brush

2010-09-14T13:21:00.003-05:00

It's important to understand how your oral health impacts the overall health of your body.

When you have an infection in your mouth, your body, unfortunately, cannot remove the infection on its own - it requires intervention. Taking care of the bleeding and the infection as soon as possible is critical as it limits the time you're exposing the rest of the body to an infection that has the potential of becoming much more serious.

Our hygienists, Talia, Melissa and Charity, can help get your gums healthy so they do not bleed when you brush and floss.

"My, what big teeth you have..."

2010-09-07T13:54:00.002-05:00

Exceptional Dentistry was a sponsor for the Rising Star Theatre Company's production of "Into the Woods." The performances were July 22-24 at The Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.

Here's a picture of the Big Bad Wolf himself:

Gum disease can affect your brain!

2010-08-31T13:39:00.004-05:00

Dr. Oz & Dr. Roizen, the "You Docs", write about recent research that indicates gum disease is a major risk factor for Alzheimer's & memory problems. Read their article here.

Our hygienists, Talia, Charity, and Melissa, have helped hundreds of people treat their periodontal disease and gum disease. People who treat their periodontal disease not only keep their teeth longer, but reduce their risk for stroke, heart attack, and Alzheimer's. Reducing the bad bacteria in the mouth helps the whole body stay healthier!

Smile Upgrade

2010-08-11T13:54:00.005-05:00

This 16 year-old came to our office for a second opinion on her dark front tooth. The tooth suffered an injury when she was younger and has had a root canal. Instead of having to grind anything off of the front, or put something over it to mask it, we were able to whiten the tooth from the inside out. It's a process called internal whitening.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

She can now feel good again about her smile!

How these 2 Dentists Stay at the Top of their Field

2010-07-14T14:44:00.006-05:00

It is the time of the year IOWA sends out the Application for Renewal of Dental License. I was completing Dr. Ted Murray and Dr. Kristen Berning's forms, and needed to fill in the answer to the question "License renewal requires that you obtain a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education taken between September 1, 2008 and August 31, 2010. Write the number of hours you completed... "
Our two dentists each attended 203 hours !!
Just another reason on why they are so good at taking care of your smile, their life's work.
Dr. Murray & Dr. Berning are dentists, and passionate ones at that!

American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

2010-05-17T11:07:00.003-05:00

Dr. Ted Murray & Dr. Kristen Berning attended the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry's (AACD) 26th Annual Scientific Session, in Grapevine, Texas from Tuesday April 27- Saturday May 1, 2010. The AACD is the world's largest international dental organization dedicated to advancing excellence in the art and science of cosmetic dentistry through responsible esthetics. Both Dr. Murray & Dr. Berning are active AACD members.

Contemporary cosmetic dentistry is a comprehensive approach to total oral health care that combines art and science to achieve optimal dental function, health, and esthetics. The annual AACD scientific session is the world's premier venue to get the in-depth training necessary to stay up-to-date in cosmetic dentistry and ultimately provide the best care to patients in our community. Dr. Murray and Dr. Berning participated in hands-on workshops and attended several lectures by world renowned dentists such as Dr. Newton Fahl, Jr and Dr. Ron Jackson.

Dr Ted Murray wins AACD election

2010-05-05T14:24:00.002-05:00

Dr Ted Murray, an accredited dentist in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry was elected to the Nominations and Leadership Development Committee at the annual meeting of the AACD in Dallas, Texas.

Importance of Keeping Your Teeth - an NPR Story

2010-04-26T12:06:00.003-05:00

Earlier this month, National Public Radio featured the story "As Our Skin Sags with Age, So Do Our Bones." One of the most important elements in keeping facial bone definition is to keep your natural teeth!

David Hunt, a physical anthropologist at the Smithsonian's Natural History Museum in Washington, D.C., was interviewed for the story. He oversees the roughly 30,000 human skeletons in the Smithsonian's collection.

"When you see that many bones," Hunt says, "You get a pretty good sense of how bone changes over time." The skulls from the Smithsonian show a range of definition: from minimal loss in bone volume , to moderate and dramatic changes in cheek and jaw definition.

Hunt says a 20-year-old's bone is "really pretty stuff. It's smooth, and it's solid, and it's hard, and it's dense." But bone is not just a hunk of calcium; it's alive and constantly, throughout life, being eaten away and rebuilt, bit by bit. In fact, every dozen years or so, each of us has a whole new skeleton. That's good. And bad.

By middle age, the texture of the bone is rougher. Eye sockets start to sink and then the jaw recedes. You can get all the exercise and drink all the milk you want, but you're still going to get some bone loss in your face, simply from aging.

But, according to David Hunt, does have a tip for how to slow down that facial bone droop: Hang on to your teeth.

The body takes away the sockets where the teeth used to be as a result of tooth loss. Hunt says that thanks to decades of better dental care, antibiotics and fluoride, the teeth and skulls of baby boomers look a lot younger than those of our grandparents in middle age. Yet another reason to keep flossing!

We appreciate our Dental Assistants!

2010-03-11T09:16:00.002-06:00

Dental Assistant Week is March 7-13.

We appreciate the wonderful dental assistants at our office!

They do an amazing job helping Dr. Berning & Dr. Murray give our patients beautiful, healthy smiles.

Cosmetic Bonding

2010-02-25T09:09:00.002-06:00

This 14 year-old girl was so excited to finally get her braces off to reveal her beautiful new smile. However, there was one thing left to do to truly finish her smile. One of her lateral incisors (right next to her front teeth) was undersized. This is a common tooth that can be smaller than ideal. Cosmetic bonding can be done to make teeth the correct size or to close gaps. This procedure can be completed in just one visit.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Everyone was pleased with the result!

Happy Holidays from Exceptional Dentistry

2009-12-16T16:02:00.003-06:00

To celebrate the holiday season and our appreciation for each other, we enjoyed a Team Christmas Party at The Diamond Jo's Woodfire Grille.

Back row, left to right: Dr. Kristen Berning, Melissa, Maureen, Kori, Charity, Talia, Amy, Darlene, & Cliff. Front row: Carol & Dr. Ted Murray.

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-06T14:18:00.003-05:00

We have 3 eye-catching painted pumpkins in our office for the Halloween season, thanks to Stacy's Creations.

Pierced Tongues

2009-10-01T15:04:00.003-05:00

We see pierced tongues and the damage the metal stud does to teeth.
The metal chips teeth. One of our patient's teeth has been fixed twice, and he still continues wearing the stud, and chipping his teeth.

In the October 5, 2009 Sports Illustrated issue is an article on NBA player Chris Anderson, of the Denver Nuggets. The 6'10" Anderson, from Iola, Texas, nicknamed Birdman missed a basketball game after breaking a molar while biting down on his tongue stud.

The Real Solution to His Dental Anxieties, Fears and Anxieties Can be Solved Immedialately

2009-09-17T17:29:00.005-05:00

The Real Solution to a patient's fears, phobias and anxieties was all in one little pill. Today was an amazing day for a Dubuque man, Dr. Ted Murray and Amy. After years of thinking about it, the patient called our office. He had fears, anxieties and phobias about a dentist looking at his mouth. Kori invited him to come for a ten minute appointment to meet our dentist and to talk about his fears. We often hear about someone being worried, frightened and not wanting to have someone look at their mouth. It was an easy first appointment, so he made an appointment to return for an hour, where Melissa took photos and Amy took xrays of his teeth. He wanted the two broken teeth and the three teeth with decay restored with tooth colored onlays. Sedation dentistry works. He took one little pill, Dr. Ted Murray and Amy got everything done in three hours.
Our patient did amazing. His mouth is now healthy. He called us late afternoon. "Wow, I do not remember anything about my appointment. I can't believe how easy it went. I got it done."
Yes, we can solve the problem of dental fears, anxieties and phobias.
Come in, take a pill, sit back, listen to music on our ipod.
This is a family dental office.
And you are family.
We're with you all the way.

twentydirtyhands.com , Pottery Tour, Dubuque & Galena

2009-09-02T15:39:00.004-05:00

Do you want to see some wonderful art? Twenty Dirty Hands is a self guided pottery tour October 16, 17, 18, 2009. 10-6PM daily. www.twentydirtyhands.com

My jaw hurts, my teeth hurt and I have a headache

2009-09-02T15:15:00.005-05:00

"My jaw hurts, my teeth hurt and I have a headache", said a patient last week. Dr. Ted Murray listened to him and did an exam, took impressions of his teeth and made him an orthotic. Our patient called today to say his bite feels great, and he has no more pain. He is wearing this comfortable orthotic, and you can't even notice it when he talks. He is sleeping better. He will wear this orthotic for about three months, and then Dr. Murray will restore his teeth to the correct bite to give him a strong and healthy smile. Dr. Murray explained that for your body to stay healthy, your muscles, bones, lungs and heart have to work in harmony. Likewise a healthy mouth is dependent upon the proper function of teeth, gums, muscles and jaw joints. Neuromuscular dentistry is the type of "whole mouth care" that we offer at our office.

Time Flies, Check your toothbrush

2009-08-24T11:00:00.005-05:00

"The bad news is time flies.
The good news is you're the pilot."
author, Michael Altshuler

Dubuque had a beautiful sunny 75 degree weekend. What a perfect weekend to be outside. Summertime flies by fast.

The American Dental Association suggests replacing your toothbrush every three to four months - even sooner after recovery from an illness or cold. Food particles and moisture become trapped in the base of brush bristles where they provide everything germs need to grow. Research has shown that unclean brushes can bring microorganisms into your mouth.

Thanks to Link Embroidery 563-583-4942 for a great job putting our names on our Lab coats.

Get The Lead Out

2009-08-19T16:06:00.005-05:00

Dr Ted Murray & Dr Kristen Berning are a sponsor for "Get the Lead Out" Run.
Saturday October 10, 2009
9:00 AM @ Mines of Spain
Benefit for Mines of Spain, Dubuque's beautiful location for walking/hiking/running trails
10K, 5K Run/Walk, & 1 mile fun run

www.gtlorun.org

Hey Dr, what do you do?

2009-08-17T11:00:00.003-05:00

What do our dentists do?
Dr Murray & Dr Berning calm fearful patients everyday.
They diagnose periodontal disease every day.
They save teeth every day.
They improve the self image of their patients every day.
They fix broken, missing, chipped, cracked, crooked yellow teeth every day.
They have three awesome hygienists who give gentle cleanings every day.

We can help. Email or call us at 800-478-9439 today.

Periodontal disease a risk marker for stroke

2009-08-03T15:36:00.002-05:00

Men with a history of bone loss due to periodontal disease run a higher risk of having a stroke, according to a study in the Annals of Neurology (May 28, 2009). The researchers analyzed data from 1,137 men in the Veterans Affairs Normative Aging Study, an ongoing study that began in the 1960s with healthy volunteers from the Boston Area. Participants underwent medical and dental exams every three years for an average of 24 years. Overall, 80 incident cases of cerebrovascular disease occurred during a combined 27,506 person-years, and the periodontal bone loss was "significantly associated" with an increased hazard rate of cerebrovascular disease.

Academy of General Dentistry in Baltimore

2009-08-03T15:23:00.002-05:00

Dr Ted Murray is the President of the Iowa Academy of General Dentistry. He just returned from the annual AGD meeting in Baltimore, Maryland. It was a five day dental meeting, with many committee meetings, and continuing education courses. The opening inspirational speaker was baseball great Cal Ripken. Dr Murray's next project is arranging a Region 10 meeting in January in Des Moines, where AGD leaders from Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska will attend.

Welcome New Patients

2009-07-02T14:54:00.003-05:00

Dubuque, Iowa won the All American City Award. Our city has done an incredible job developing the area along the Mississippi River, and the west-end, where our dental office is located at 4200 Asbury Road, is growing with restaurants, retail shops and homes. We want to welcome new companies IBM (bringing 1300 jobs) and Hormel (brining 250 jobs) to our great city. IBM has done a great job renovating their building at 700 Locust Street. We welcome the new workers and their families. Summer is a great time to get a beautiful, bright, healthy smile! Call or email us today at 800-478-9439.

A Dental License is a License to Learn

2009-06-24T14:16:00.008-05:00

Dr. Kristen Berning, and our three hygienists, Talia Roarig, Sharon Grisanti, and Charity Rausch, attended a continuing education course on June 18th and 19th at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. The course included information about Active Maintenance, Oral-Systemic connection, and the consequences of jaw-bone disease.

Sometimes a patient will tell us that every time they have their teeth cleaned by a hygienist, she scrapes around the teeth, and now their gums really bleed. We can understand your concern. People's gums don't bleed unless they are touched. Actually healthy gums never bleed. When there is an infection, we always get some pus and some bleeding that comes out of the wound caused by the bacteria living under the gum. As much as 90% of the population has some form of periodontal disease at some point in their life.

Our practice is fortunate to have three very skilled hygienists who also happen to be very gentle and friendly. Summer is a great time to schedule a professional cleaning with Talia, Sharon and Charity. Contact us today at 800-478-9439.

Exceptional Dentistry Welcomes Talia Roarig

2009-06-16T14:26:00.003-05:00

We are proud to welcome Talia Roarig to our team. She is a Registered Dental Hygienist.

Welcome

2009-06-08T11:50:00.000-05:00

Exceptional Dentistry’s conservative approach to modern dentistry features a gentle touch, so important for children and those suffering from dental anxiety.